Keto Italian Sausage Artichoke Heart Dip - Hot Baked Cheese
A rich, creamy hot dip combining spicy Italian sausage with tender artichoke hearts in a melted cheese base. Perfect for keto dieters and low-carb entertaining, this crowd-pleasing appetizer delivers bold Italian flavors with a satisfying protein boost. The combination of four cheeses creates an irresistibly gooey texture, while red pepper flakes add a gentle heat. Ideal for game day parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers where you need a hearty dip that keeps guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F
- 2
Brown Italian sausage in skillet over medium heat, breaking apart as it cooks, then drain excess fat
- 3
Combine sour cream, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in large mixing bowl until well mixed
- 4
Add chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes, then season with salt and pepper
- 5
Fold in cooked sausage until evenly distributed
- 6
Transfer mixture to baking dish and spread evenly
- 7
Bake for 20 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly
- 8
Cool for a few minutes before serving
Tips
Drain sausage thoroughly to prevent greasy dip - pat with paper towels if needed.
Let cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
Serve with pork rinds, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for keto-friendly dipping.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Assemble completely up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.
Serve hot with low-carb vegetables, pork rinds, or cheese crisps for dipping.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining sausage fat to avoid greasy texture
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in final dip
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip completely and refrigerate covered up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What can I substitute for artichoke hearts?
Frozen spinach works well - thaw completely and squeeze out all excess water before adding. You could also use diced roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for different flavors.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.